FAQ'S

We're asked these questions regularly. If we haven't answered your question, or for more information, please call.

1) How Long Has PanAmerican Been in Business?

PanAmerican Travel Services was founded on April 15, 1996. Since then, we've helped thousands of travelers experience Central America; South America; and places like Easter Island, the Falklands and Antarctica.

Prior to founding PanAmerican, Carlos Fida launched the South American division of a large US travel agency. Under his fifteen years of leadership, that division grew to be one of the most successful providers of South American travel.

PanAmerican Travel Services is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA), the South & Central American Travel Association, Inc. (SATA), and The International Ecotourism Society (TIES).

2) Why Doesn't This Website Show Your Prices?

Unlike most travel companies, we sell customized vacations. Our website is a collection of suggested destinations and activities, not a list of set-itinerary, set-price trips. Every trip we plan is unique. Each varies by destination, choice of accommodations, season, and activities.

In order to put a price on your trip, we need to know exactly what you are looking for. Usually, we can provide you with a sketch itinerary and estimated price within 48 hours of your initial email request or telephone call. Just call us at 800.364.4359 to get things started.

3) What Is Your Process? How Do I Get A Custom Trip?

When you contact PanAmerican Travel Services, we take time to get to know you. What are your interests and dreams for the trip? What got you thinking about this destination? Where have you enjoyed traveling in the past?

You will then receive a sketch itinerary, usually by the end of the next business day. Through additional discussion, the proposal is refined into a truly unique travel plan.

4) Do I Need A Visa?

U.S. citizens require visas for only two of our destinations: Brazil and Paraguay.

Brazil: A passport and visa are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Brazil for any purpose. Brazilian visas must be obtained in advance from the Brazilian Embassy or consulate. There are no "airport visas," and immigration authorities will refuse entry to Brazil to anyone not possessing a valid visa. All Brazilian visas, regardless of the length of validity, must initially be used within 90 days of the issuance date or will no longer be valid. Immigration authorities will not allow entry into Brazil without a valid visa.

Paraguay: Tourist visa applicants must present with their application a passport with at least six months validity from the date of the application; two passport photographs; two copies of a bank statement or other evidence of financial solvency; and two copies of a round-trip ticket or a printed trip itinerary.

Contact PanAmerican Travel Services at 800.364.4359 to find out how best to obtain your visa.

5) Do I Need Special Vaccinations To Travel?

Of course, you should always consult your physician about immunizations. US citizens traveling directly from the US will not need special immunizations when visiting most of our destination countries.

However, several Latin American countries do require yellow fever vaccinations for visitors arriving from "endemic zones". Other destinations, like the Brazilian Amazon, require yellow fever vaccination even if you've come directly from the US. Call our travel counselors or visit the CDC'swebsite for more information.

Although not required, you should consider getting Hep A and B vaccines, even if you never plan on leaving the US.

6) Do I Really Need Travel Insurance?

Only you can answer that question, but there are several things to consider in making your decision. Do you have health problems that could affect your ability to travel? Is the trip costly? Do you have a low tolerance for risk? If you answer yes, then travel insurance could be the right choice.

The travel insurance we offer can cover trip cancellation and trip interruption. It also assists with the cost of trip delay, missed connections, medical expenses and emergencies, lost baggage and baggage delays. Other services include bag tracking and cash advances for emergencies.

The price you pay for a policy is determined by your age and the cost of your trip.

PanAmerican Travel Services offers insurance to all our clients. We obtain waivers from any clients who decline this type of insurance.